Tulips on a Kelim

I took a large canvas for this.I love tulips when they are fully out and there is wonderful movement in their serpentine stems. These red tulips were just at that stage, and I wanted to play with their vibrant colour, contrasting it with the natural earthy dyes in this old kelim. I also enjoyed the discipline of the kelim pattern against the flamboyant anarchy of the shapes made by the tulips – and I extended this into the room , using the stiff architecture of the windows with the sinewy backs of the dark wooden chairs. The result is striking and decorative – it would make a very positive statement in a dull room!